Location Location Location

Issue #02

Letter from the CEO Intro by Steve Mercieca

QLZH Foundation

Sustainability with a purpose

Inspiration through office interiors Vera Sant Fournier

South Talks

A locals view - Donovan Attard

Pg 3

Pg 4

Pg 6

Pg 9

What makes a top Letting Specialist?

Our top performer explains - Colin Bonello

European Business Awards QLZH selected as national winner

Management in Real Estate

Going the extra mile - Matthew Navarro Pg 14

Zaha Hadid

A tribute to the late legendary architect Pg 20

Characters Set in Stone

Andrew & Luke share their passion for Houses of Character

Training Strategies

Our academy trainer - Mattea Tabone

Pg 12

Blockchain

FinTech meets Real Estate - Michael Paris

Latest figures in rental market

Hauke Eggert - Design Fabio Zuccaro - Content Hauke Eggert - Photography

Pg 28

Pg 10

Quick Price

List of contributors:

Pg 24

Pg 32

Pg 34

Letter from our CEO

Hello and welcome to the second edition of our magazine; Location3 . With summer just around the corner it is a buzzing time for everyone on the island. The days are longer, the sun is shining and the weather is sweet. The lidos and beach bars are opening and its that time of year we can lay in the sun and hear the waves against the shore.

Some people prefer winter over summer. I’m not one of those people. I love summer, I love the sun, the sea, the longer days, the relaxed clothing, the sunsets, less carrying of gas cylinders or pellets or fire wood. I love not coming home in the dark with wet socks. Somehow summer gets us out there more. The great outdoors, the birds and the trees, umbrellas and BBQ’s. The next 4 months are the best months of the year!

This is why outdoor space has become so important when selecting your home or office.

It gives us a sense of relaxation, just what our bodies need to be able to focus and really understand why we do what we do. Life is not

about 9-5 or about arguing over the petty things in life. Life is about life, its about family and having fun. It’s about doing something because you have the passion for it. Focus on spending the short time we have on this beautiful planet by doing something you love. Something creative, something that benefits others.

In this edition we will introduce you to a few of our team members, we will also showcase some of our favourite picks for residential properties as well as commercial office space, together with a brief on our QLZH Foundation. We hope you enjoy this issue and look forward to being given the opportunity to be at your service. Have an Awesome summer and be the Best you can be!

Steve Mercieca 3

QLZH FOUNDATION

Under a firework lit sky, on the 11th of January 2018, the QLZH Foundation was officially launched by Her Excellency, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, President of the Republic of Malta and honorary patron of the foundation. It felt fitting to invite all our team to join in the celebration of such an amazing milestone since most of them have been with us from day one, sharing the love the QLZH Group had to share with the society we live in and beyond.

We started small by organizing beach and countryside clean up days and initially felt the need to get our clients involved in making the environment we live in more enjoyable and green. In collaboration with Green Pak Malta, our QuickLets clients started receiving a voucher to collect free recycling bags from the local council. Together with this, they also received an information sheet on how to separate and dispose of their domestic waste. On the other hand, for our Zanzi Homes clients, we planted a tree for every home we sell, together with a few more to add up a figure of 300. The Pembroke Local Council were the first to show interest in this project.

In July 2017, our philanthropic efforts took us to Ghana in Africa. The satisfaction of our work reached its peak when we saw the smiling faces of the children we visited in two schools situated on the outskirts of the village. To one school we donated over two hundred books whilst to the other, we supplied internet access for twelve months, investing in their education and personal growth.

4

Back home, the QLZH Group wanted to make Christmas for the children hospitalized at Mater Dei a bit more special. Our Co-Founder and CEO, dressed up as Santa in blue, always keeping faithful to our brand colour scheme, distributed over sixty gifts to the children in the week preceding Christmas. TV Presenter Ben Camille also accompanied us on this initiative.

Observing the impact our companies were having on society, we were both humbled and honored and felt the growing need to give our social responsibility a dimension of its own, giving our humanitarian work more focus and prominence and therefore we set up the QLZH Foundation.

Our goals are huge but so is the motivation our team and us share.

In 2018, we continued to plant more trees with the help of the school children from Dingli Primary School and in collaboration with Dingli Local Council. These are only a few trees of the the one million we wish to plant over the course of ten years.

In Ghana, we plan to lay the first stone for a new school and we will be sponsoring the education of a child for every place we rent out in Malta. We will continue promoting organ donation with all our employees, organize blood donation drives, visit more animal sanctuaries, spend time with the elderly, organize the second edition of our Make a Zanzi Wish and so much more.

Our Foundation will soon be in a position to raise funds from the public, inviting you to join in our efforts to make the world a truly better place to live in. We hope you join our vision.

5

INSPIRATION THROUGH OFFICE INTERIORS

Apart from being the first impression on your potential new clients and your representation for maintaining your current ones, your office interiors play a big part in the success of your organisation.

Perhaps locally it can go underrated. Your client and business relations should be well maintained not only on a service level but also image upkeep. A well designed office may cost a little more, but it is cheaper than a poorly designed one. A non-functioning office wastes time, causes frustration and makes your employees counterproductive for the simple reason that it may hinder basic tasks. Before any commercial project starts a fundamental starting point is the employee interview. This is a two-way process and the potential candidate, may be judging you also on the atmosphere of your offices.

When one takes into consideration the amount of hours we spend in an office it is clear to see how important professional interior design of the workspace actually is. Keeping general rules and suggestions in consideration when planning your new office interiors or undertaking a refurbishment will surely improve your work mode, the general office mood and maintain your corporate image. This will naturally lead to higher productivity.

6

offices and benching desks instead of claustrophobic workstations.

We often find employees talk about dry air in the office. It is well known that air conditioning systems do cause dry eyes and mouth.

Investing in an air purification system and boosting your given natural light will improve the general mood in your office. You will also keep good air circulation and odours at bay whilst adhering to health and safety standards. An scent diffuser is also something to consider, no one likes an unpleasant smell at the workspace.

Your workforce will spend the majority of their day sitting in an office chair. When they begin to suffer the ill effects of an uncomfortable chair such as lower back and neck pain you start to get complaints, leading to lower levels of productivity. In a nutshell do not underestimate your furniture functionality and comfort.

Ergonomic desk chairs, although not cheap, will prove to be a very good investment in the long run.

Good quality office furniture will also offer cable management, which will get all those unsightly wires neatly tucked away. When choosing your office furniture, you are investing in your company image as well as your staff, and they will love you for it.

One of your major considerations from a layout and sustainability point of view is natural lighting which is a much overlooked fundamental.

Studies show productivity improves with natural light. Our eyes are designed to work with the changing light levels of sunlight, in contrast with the harsh continuous and clinical artificial light commonly found in our offices. Truth is this kind of lighting causes fatigue and strain on the eyes and can induce headaches. You can maximise natural sunlight by creating open environments, tear down interior walls, use glass panels for private

When planning out your space keep in mind that no one likes to bump into colleagues just to perform simple tasks. It’s not only important to give staff big enough desks, but you must also consider ‘circulation space’ and the flow of movement. The break-out space is not just for your employees to have lunch but can provide to be a crucial place for relaxation and exploration of new ideas. Chill out spaces for informal chats or just a change of scenery, will bring down barriers of communication and encourage spontaneity in the office. Having designated casual meeting or lounge areas in your office for employees to relax and exchange thoughts may give life to some of the best ideas and lower the tension an office environment may cause.

Branding should not stop with the

business cards and website. It should be infused into the space where everything happens. It should be all around the employees and it should speak to clients. The brand should flow continuously from the website to the stationary and to interiors. This will create a sense on unison within your space and your corporate image. Create interest by designing a feature wall which houses your logo signage.

Carry any identifying factors through the space, such as colour schemes and logos. Clients and your people notice these touches and become more engaged with your brand. The physical appearance of your office will lay the foundation for your corporate culture. In designing your office space and environment, inject your firm’s slogans, logos, philosophy, attitude, products and colour palette in order to showcase your firm’s corporate culture.

Vera Sant Fournier 7

SOUTH TALKS The South of the Island is experiencing a rejuvenation, leading to an increase in demand over the last few years.

But what makes a sale in the south of Malta different from the rest? Our Sales Team Leader, Donovan, shares his views.

Questions: What do you value the most in your position?

What I value most in my career choice is the opportunity to grow, both on a professional level and on a personal level. Connecting with people, finding suitable properties and putting a smile on clients’ faces at end of the day.

Question: What are your areas of specialisation, and what differentiates these areas from the rest of Malta?

My areas cover the whole of the south of Malta and topping my client list are first time buyers and rental investors.

What typifies the south are larger families involved in the transactions, older properties which are either sought after or up for development and a strong sense of belonging to certain areas within the younger generation.

You find many young people that have grown up in characteristically-rich Maltese houses, including traditional arches, wooden beams and large, connected rooms. As a result, I find there is a great interest in modernised properties which would have a healthy mix of both the old and the new to keep that nostalgic factor reminiscent of childhood. In a sense it adds comfort to contemporary commodities.

Sometimes it is easier to assist clients to find their perfect home since they know exactly what they want. On other occasions, some clients need guidance, especially when choosing the area they want to live in. Although there is this disparity, there is an interesting level of continuity in this dichotomy, depending where clients are from.

8

People will want to change area or keep living in one according to their personal and cultural background. This is a central characteristic of people coming from the south.

People from Zejtun will want to continue living in Zejtun at all cost. This is different from other towns in the south in which migration from town to town is more prevalent. Marsascala, for example, has become a highly sought-after area, especially for younger generations, and thus has become a staple area in people’s searches as it continues to thrive as a modern and busy town. Then there are areas that are known for peace and quiet, such as Xaghjra and Dingli. Zurrieq is the new up and coming development boom, whilst the Kottonera area is bringing more investment opportunities.

So if you were raised in or would like to experience living in the South, get in touch with us today and we will surely be able to help you find the property you are looking for. I for one, am from the South, so rest assured you are definitely in good hands.

Donovan Attard Sales Specialist | Fgura Branch donovan@zanzihomes.com | +356 7721 2351

3

4

€ 395,000

REF: 23304

110

3

2

€ 200,000

MARSASKALA

BIRKIRKARA

Modern and very bright second floor apartment in a small block served with lift. Property comprises of a combined kitchen, dining, living room and main bathroom. Three double bedrooms, main with en-

230

‘First Floor Apartment in a block of only 4 units served with lift - Property comprises an Open Kitchen / Living / Dining (measuring 67sqm) leading to a front spacious terrace, four bedrooms (Main with en-suite)

MARSASKALA

MARSASKALA

Situated close to St. Thomas Bay comes this luxurious and highly designed and furnished 3 bedroom penthouse built on a 230sqm plot. Due to its location and layout, it boasts a lot of natural light.

REF: 24660

Brand new corner apartment on second floor served with lift in a very well kept block. Layout comprises of open plan kitchen/dining/ living leading to a corner balcony. Further in one finds two separate bathrooms

2

€ 260,000

REF: 21167

Very well lit Terraced House situated close to all daily amenities in one of the most sought after areas of this quaint town. Upon entrance property comprises a welcoming Sitting room, Living room, kitchen/Dining,

110

4

3

€ 266,000

ZEBBUG

3

MARSAXLOKK

GHAXAQ BIRZEBBUGIA

164

180

4

2

€ 260,000

REF: 21578

100

2

2

€ 185,000

REF: 25511

REF: 25529

A beautiful and well lit apartment in a very quiet area of Ghaxaq, in a modern block, with unobstructed country views and sea views. The total area of the apartment is 164sqm, including three large bedrooms, washroom,

REF: 25260

Solitary Duplex maisonette,1st floor : Spacious hallway,Sitting room with balcony,Dining room,Guest bathroom with shower,Fitted oak kitchen.

On the second floor one finds three large double

250

3

2

€ 340,000

REF: 25534

A lovely solitary Maisonette being offered furnished and ready to move into, with airspace. Upon entering this property, one finds a spare bathroom, living room with a Juliette style balcony boasting views, a

200

3

3

€ 399,000

9

WHAT MAKES A TOP LETTING SPECIALIST?

New and hard-working letting specialists often bear success quite rapidly at QuickLets, but Colin Bonello is quite exceptional. After just twelve months In the field, he has acquired three top-performing specialist awards. Here’s what he has to say on how to achieve such success.

Firstly, networking is essential to expand your contact base; that’s the most exciting part of my job, since I’m very sociable by nature. Consequently, my drive and satisfaction come from clients. When the people you work with genuinely praise your service, you know you’re doing a good job and it encourages you to perform even better.

I’ve got no hocus pocus up my sleeve. I just make sure that I give clients my full attention and study their requirements, working in an ethical and professional manner. When you’re doing something you love, work becomes seamlessly pleasurable.

I used to joke with my manager in the beginning that most of my achievements are pure luck, but a specific episode quickly made me realise that real estate is about skill and making your own luck. One time, during a viewing, the property owner asked me to leave with my client, as she thought the client was not interested, but I calmly told her to let him walk around and take in the property & its features, showing confidence as I was quite sure it was the property for him. After seeing a string of other properties, the client chose this one. Not only was I right in showing him the first property as the best for the client, but I was able to keep the viewing going and manage a delicate situation. Knowing your place and asserting your role is essential for success. It allows you to make the right decision at the right time.

There’s also the brand. Working with Quicklets is fun and offers freedom; apart from the casual atmosphere at the office, we manage our own time flexibly and we’re encouraged to share ideas across the board. We’re all friends here, from top to bottom, devoid of the corporate setting one would experience in other companies.

Not to mention the team building activities and social events we host, especially at the Mosta branch!

My motivation keeps growing month after month. There is still much more to gain. Complacency can be your worst enemy. Periodically I like to take stock of what I have achieved so far and set new goals that keep me going with the same drive to ensure my latest client is served as well as the first.

Colin Bonello Letting Specialist | Mosta Branch colin@quicklets.com.mt +356 7909 2727 10

N/A

2

2

€ 1,300/month

REF: 27830

MADLIENA

ST. JULIANS

REF: 22596

A fully furnished apartment close to bus stops and all the amenities. Property comes fully equipped kitchen/living/dining and with full AC throughout, washing machine, LCD TV, lift, and all the necessary

1

€1,650/month

1

TIGNE

N/A

REF: 23636

A fully furnished duplex apartment close to all the amenities that you may need. The property comprises of a fully equipped kitchen/living/dining with air conditioning installed. Property comes including

N/A

3

2

€ 4,500/month

3

3

€ 5,000/month

4

€ 8,000/month

A lovely modern apartment situated in one of the best locations of Malta. The apartment is situated on the 3rd floor of a luxurious block served with lift.

It comprises a large living room with a fully equipped

N/A

3

3

€ 3,700/month

A fully furnished apartment comprising of a fully equipped kitchen/living/dining with AC. Property comes fully equipped with washing machine, LCD TV, lift, and all the necessary appliances and utensils

N/A

2

2

€ 800/month

REF: 25685

NAXXAR

SLIEMA

N/A

4

REF: 23851

REF: 22497

A fully furnished duplex penthouse offering a fully equipped kitchen/living/dining area with air conditioning installed and sound system. The main bedroom leads to a terrace with sea-views and the

N/A

REF: 22319

QAWRA

ST. JULIANS

SWIEQI

REF: 20272

Fully furnished one bedroom penthouse close to bus stops and all the amenities. The property comprises of a fully equipped kitchen/living/dining room. Property comes fully equipped with full AC throughout, washing

Fantastic and unique semi furnished villa. Situated in one of the most prestigious areas of Malta, this property is enjoys an open plan kitchen / living / dining area with marvelous sea-views. Outside space is

A meticulously restored and renovated, House of Character with a grand living room with original birthroom boasting a concealed a/c and complemented with solid hard wood floor. A marble

N/A

4

2

€ 2,200/month 11

THE QLZH GROUP NAMED ‘ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR’ IN EUROPEAN BUSINESS AWARDS The QLZH Group has been named ‘National Winner’ in the 2017-18 European Business Awards, Europe’s largest business competition, sponsored by RSM.

team members, business partners, family and friends who supported us from day one. We are all very excited to represent our country and promote our economy overseas”.

The QLZH Group was chosen from 2,898 businesses (28 from Malta) previously identified as ‘Ones to Watch’ in a list of business excellence published in December. The Group was selected as a National Winner by a panel of independent judges including senior business leaders, politicians and academics as the best business in Malta in the Awards’ category Entrepreneur of the Year. The Group will now go on to represent Malta in the final stage of the competition in Warsaw, Poland. The European Business Awards considered over 110,000 businesses from 34 countries.

The QLZH Group will head to Warsaw on 22 and 23 May to complete a final round of judging and attend both a Summit to engage in business issues and the Gala Ceremony where the overall category winners for 2017/18 European Business Awards sponsored by RSM will be announced.

The QLZH Group was founded five years ago and today delivers Real Estate services form 23 branches with a team of over 275. Group founder and CEO Steve Mercieca says “Our clients’ satisfaction is the highest award we can ever wish for but a recognition by independent European judges gives us the confidence we are on plan with the ambitious goals we set ourselves. I would like to publicly thank all our 12

Separately, the Group is also competing in a public vote to be named ‘European Public Winner’ at the Gala Final. The public vote engages with people from across the globe and last year generated almost 250,000 votes. To view the QLZH entry video and vote please go to: www.businessawardseurope.com.

“We urge the Maltese public to support us by voting for our video at the link above. Apart from promoting our company, the main goal of this entry is to raise awareness of the work being done by our QLZH Foundation”, Steve Mercieca adds.

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MANAGEMENT FOR REAL ESTATE

We have met with Matthew Navarro to give us insight about what it means to manage a team of specialists. He tells us what makes a good and rewarding real estate managerial role.

Question: What is the most important factor in your managing role?

The team is the most important factor in my daily working life. It’s such a satisfaction to see specialists succeed and progress. The most intimate part of our relationship is the closing of a deal. Specialists call to let me know when clients are highly interested in a property and would like to make an offer, it is then up to me to take over and speak to the owner and clients.

There’s a lot of excitement. Both in terms of the client-owner direction, but also in the specialist-manager direction. Working closely with them has allowed us to form a bond. What’s exciting about the closing part, is that we make both ends see eye-toeye despite the financial or technical difficulties.

The training stages are also a great way to form this solid relationship we have. Konrad (Branch co-owner) and myself have trained people coming from different sectors, such as hospitality and services. Some of these people have become our best performing specialists. So we truly welcome anyone from any working industry to make a leap and try out real estate as a career choice; we’ll certainly deliver the required training and assistance. In my own experience, 14

I’ve got Konrad to thank. Mainly for believing in me, at an early stage of my career and at such an young age.

I’ve been given the space to grow as sales manager and up to now, thanks to hard work and dedication, these decisions have proved to be fruitful.

Question: What are the prevailing tendencies you observe in the market?

Nowadays, many owners are not negotiate. They tend to give us a price and make that price final. This can be slightly problematic as buyers will always want to brush-off a portion of the price, even if the price tag is fair according to the property and the area. When it comes to clients, everyone has an ideal property in mind, but when we start-off with property searches one quickly becomes more realistic in terms of prices and property features. Finding compromise is deeply rooted in the real estate business, as positive elements outshine negative elements according to people’s tastes and needs.

First time buyers will predominantly search for apartments and penthouses. This section of society will have a budget ranging between 150,000eur to 200,000eur, with the majority of searches falling within central-north Malta.

Buying on-plan properties is also quite widespread, as young couples can save some money in the meantime for furniture and other personal touches.

There is the idea of “picking and choosing� attached to it, invoking a sense of liberty and purchase-power within a competitive market. There’s a great deal of importance given to the open plan living|dining area, as well as a desire for outside space and/or terraces. I know this well since I am a first time buyer myself, and I wanted to have ample living and entertaining space.

Question: Do you feel you have any input into the market yourself?

Absolutely. Working closely with developers and putting in some suggestions has sometimes proved favorable to the consumer. We sometimes even get involved in the planning stages and contribute hugely to the property plans and design. It makes sense, as we then can propose properties to potential buyers with confidence. In reality, we do sell a lot of property and consequently learn many of the current request and tendencies of clients. It is then only natural that we also delve into the planning process to reflect those tendencies in future properties.

Matthew Navarro Sales Manager | San Gwann Branch matthew@zanzihomes.com +356 9932 9992

15

REF: 22350

104

2

2

€ 151,000

MSIDA

PIETA

REF: 16356

This apartment perfectly situated on one of the best streets of Pieta boasting a wide frontage, comprises a spacious open plan kitchen, living, dining area leading on to a front terrace, 2 double bedrooms (Main En-

3

2

€ 245,000

IBRAGG

133

REF: 18118

This Apartment comprises an open plan kitchen/living/ dining leading onto a terrace, 3 double bedrooms, master complemented with ensuite facilities, guest bathroom and drying terrace.

136

3

2

€ 260,000

3

2

€ 202,000

2

€ 210,000

Ideal as a primary residence, forming part of a pristine block. Offering 158sqm of living space and comprises open plan kitchen, living, dining area leading onto a terrace boasting views, guest bathroom and drying

158

3

2

€ 350,000

Beautifully finished semi detached villa in one of the most prominent developments in the area. Property comprises open plan kitchen/living/dining and sizeable yard. At basement level one finds a formal

300

3

2

€ 920,000

REF: 21650

ATTARD

ZEBBUG 16

120

3

REF: 26058

REF: 21137

Apartment forming part of a brand new development, complimented with a Front Terrace enjoying Unobstructed Country Views in Zebbug.

155

REF: 23284

IBRAGG

BAHAR IC-CAGHAQ

GZIRA

REF: 24459

This unit comprises a spacious open plan kitchen/ living/dining leading onto a terrace. The property offers a squarish layout with no wasted space, no corridors and 2 back balconies which all add value.

This unit is situated on the fifth floor comprising a spacious open plan kitchen/living/dining leading onto a terrace enjoying lovely country views. This property is estimated to be complete by February of 2018

This Plot boasts the possibility of Developing a Semi-Detached 3 double bedroom villa with a full basement, ground floor with pool and deck area, further complimented by a first floor having 3 double

315

3

2

€ 150,000

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Zaha Hadid (1950-2016) Founder AA Dipl, RIBA, ARB, BDA, Hon.F.AIA Zaha Hadid’s pioneering vision redefined architecture for the 21st century and captured imaginations across the globe. Each of her projects transformed notions of what can be achieved in concrete, steel, and glass; combining her unwavering optimism for the future and belief in the power of invention with advanced design, material and construction innovations.

Many architects are called on to create new projects that stand as symbols of social progress—but none delivered as regularly, as unexpectedly and as spectacularly as Zaha Hadid. Her successes were so consistent, she received the highest honours from civic, academic and professional institutions across the globe. Her practice remains one of the world’s most inventive architectural studios—and has been for almost 40 years.

Born in Baghdad, Iraq in 1950, Zaha Hadid studied mathematics at the American University of Beirut before moving to London in 1972 to attend the Architectural Association (AA) School where she received the Diploma Prize in 1977.

Hadid taught at the AA School until 1987 and held numerous chairs and guest professorships at universities around the world including Columbia, Harvard, Yale and the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. She founded Zaha Hadid Architects in 1979 and was awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize (considered the Nobel Prize of architecture) in 2004.

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Experiencing Hadid’s architecture yields an understanding that the quest for beauty alone was not her modus operandi. Her buildings are beautiful—and beauty may account for their seductive urban presence, for their hold on the eye—but the beauty and virtuosity within her work is married to meaning. Her architecture is inventive, original and civic, offering generous public spaces that are clearly organized and intuitive to navigate.

As they open, each of Hadid’s buildings takes its place in architectural history for its virtuosic construction, its architectural ideology, and its sheer magnetic presence. Her designs are the embodiment of an enlightened philosophical framework and principled discipline.

Her clients commissioned buildings, and Hadid met the programmes, but she also exceeded each brief and delivered the shared aspirations of a new generation.

Zaha Hadid’s work was the subject of critically-acclaimed exhibitions at New York’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in 2006, London’s Design Museum in 2007, Saint Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum in 2015 and London’s Serpentine Galleries in 2016.

Hadid’s outstanding contribution to the architectural profession has been acknowledged by professional, academic and civic institutions around the world including the Forbes List of the ‘World’s Most Powerful Women’ and the Japan Art Association presenting her with the ‘Praemium Imperiale’. In 2010 and 2011, her designs were awarded the Stirling Prize, one of architecture’s highest accolades, by the Royal Institute of British Architects. Other awards include UNESCO naming Hadid as an ‘Artist for Peace’, the Republic of France honouring Hadid with the ‘Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres’, and TIME magazine included her in the ‘100 Most Influential People in the World’, naming her the world’s top thinker of 2010. Zaha Hadid was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 2012, and in February 2016, she received the Royal Gold Medal.

Zaha Hadid passed away on the 31st of March 2016. content: www.zaha-hadid.com

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ZANZI LUXURY HOMES An expertly curated selection of luxury homes in specially designated areas with unparalleled sea views and sophisticated finishes.

Speak to us today for Luxury living on the picturesque Maltese islands.

Spoken languages:

Contact Ray Cassar - ray@zanzihomes.com I M (+356) 7969 6979 Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s, Malta STJ 1149 | T (+356) 2010 8777 22

w w w . za n zi l u x u r y . c o m 23

CHARACTERS SET IN STONE

Quicklets and Zanzi Homes launched their 10th office on Imdina Road in Attard back in May 2017. Brothers Matthew and Luke Curmi together with childhood friend Andrew Micallef Trigona, run a state-of-the-art office which was designed by them from scratch, including the building of tables out of planks, graffiti work incorporating the company’s vision and more.

The above together with the recycling procedures and great awareness for the environemnt has also landed them the award for the most sutainable eco-friendly branch.

With the trio’s strong apetitie for success, together with company CEO Steve Mercieca’s positive vibe and energy, which permeates through the whole company, there is no holding these gentleman back!

Love for Houses Of Character.

If it is true that we are what we eat, it can also be said that other major ingredients of our Mediterranean diet are the places we live in which are the pride and joy of Maltese and Gozitans alike. Dwelling places that reflect an architecture that in many cases is quite unique and which helps define who we are, and where we have come from. A veritable cornucopia of differing styles. Who ever said variety wasn’t the spice of life!

Luke, who takes care of the branch’s sales department, and Andrew, who runs the letting department, both share a passion for Maltese architecture and, understandably, Maltese houses of character are to be counted among their favourite types of property.

These houses are normally, but not exclusively, found in village cores, often set in picturesque alleyways and narrow winding roads, elements which further add to their allure.

The fascinating journey into a house of character starts with the warm, mellow colour of the soft limstone, quarried on the islands. An intricately panelled wooden main door once opened , proffers invitation through a spacious hallway that often leads to a central courtyard, offering an abundance of natural internal light. This architectual feature then whets the appetite for what is easily the heart and soul of a Maltese and Gozitan home, the kitchen, which often times overlooks a sizeable back yard or better still, a well-nurtured garden, which, size permitting, can accommodate a pool and deck area. A well that collects water running off roof tops ensures a plentiful supply of ‘extra’ water and high back yard/garden walls ensure a more than adequate level of privacy. The living, sitting and dining rooms further compliment the ground floor.

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A radial staircase, yet another commonly found architectural feature, leads to the bedrooms on the first floor, usually three in number, and possibly more, complimented by bathrooms/showers ensuite, especially if a tasteful renovation has taken place or is being considered. A further architectural feature at first floor level is a traditional wooden balcony, normally matching the panelling as the main door .

Thickness of habitation/dividing walls ensure consolidation of warmth in the short Maltese winter months and together with Internal yards and back yards/gardens help make the longer summer months that much more bearable.

Older houses of character are usually further complimented by structures such as mill rooms and stables, especially in the older tradition-laden villages, cellars, and, on occasion, barrel vault ceilings, together with patterned tiles that make for that quite tangible rustic feeling and skylights further brightening up an already illuminating experience.

This type of property is becoming ever more popular and given the growing demand, supply may not always be so abundant. A house of character has always offered that certain je ne sais quoi. Owning one is a quite exciting and unique experience.

Interested in taking up residence in such a welcoming environment or possibly in the purchase of one as a rental investment, offering a steady year-round income? Get in touch!

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Attard Branch Andrew Micallef Trigona Branch Manager a.micalleftrigona@quicklets.com.mt +356 9926 2183 Luke Curmi Branch Manager lukec@zanzihomes.com +356 9929 7437

25

REF: 25892 N/A

3

Offering a sense of tradition is this 300 plus year old farmhouse in one of Malta’s most sought out areas.

Besides its age and traditional features one can also enjoy the 13 tumoli of land that surround the premises with over 240 olive trees, orange and lemon trees.

DINGLI

BALZAN

Brand new furnished second floor apartment served with lift and one car lock-up garage situated in a very quiet area. Accommodation comprises a combined kitchen/living/dining, three Bedrooms, main with ensuite, bathroom, front and back balconies.

2

€ 300,000

4800

4

4

€ P.O.R.

TARXIEN

16th Century Palazzo being offered for sale.

Magnificently restored to its original splendour, spreading over 2,000 sqm of land. Comprising; 6 banquet rooms, a fully equipped and operational Restaurant & a fully equipped operational wine bar

26

REF: 23437 2000

€ P.O.R.

4

3

SLIEMA

REF: 12486

13000

3

3

€ 2,850,000

The latest commodities and modern technology have been introduced to combine the comfort of modern luxurious living within an authentic art deco setting.

This double fronted town house entrance leads through a hallway paved in authentic Maltese patterned

ZURRIEQ

QORMI

The palazzo is an imposing building. Its large, airy rooms surround a huge internal courtyard on the ground floor which allows access to terraces overlooking an orchard. Upstairs, the palazzo has a chapel and birth room and even a spiral staircase leading up to a turret

REF: 16148

REF: 26125 300

4

4

€ P.O.R.

House of Character in the Bubaqra area. Upon entrance one finds a large entrance hall with it’s original restored features and leads to a large open plan kitchen/living/ dining area with a wood burning fireplace. The kitchen leads to a large outdoor space with a pool.

REF: 17841 400

4

€ 998,000

3

BALZAN RABAT VALLETTA VALLETTA

A one of a kind superbly finished and furnished House Of Character right in the heart of Balzan. Lay out in the form of a separate formal dining room, living room, open plan kitchen/dining which leads out onto a lovely back garden with Jacuzzi and guest shower room. A spiral staircase leads to a fourth bedroom with it’s own kitchenette, shower room and two roof terraces.

REF: 29019 N/A sqm 4

4

EUR 3,000/month Charming house of character in the heart of Rabat close to all amenities. Over 400 years old this unique property is set on three floors. Entrance onto a reception area leading to a sheltered internal courtyard and a separate living room area with guest toilet. On the first floor one finds an open plan kitchen/dining and double bedroom with ensuite shower overlooking the the road

REF: 17391 N/A sqm 3

4

EUR 1,800/month This one of a kind House of Character comprising of a marbled front doorway which opens into an open sky-lit hall with arched openings leading to three entrances on each side and the front. An arched doorway opens onto the kitchen/dining room area which is traversed by typical wooden beams. The large bay windows light up the room and offer a unique view.

REF: 14908 N/A sqm 4

4

EUR P.O.R. Situated in a quiet street in Malta’s capital is this one of a kind townhouse finished to high standards spread over three floors. The ground floor consists of a welcome area with stairs leading up to the main living space of the property. The first floor comprises of a bright and spacious fully equipped kitchen/ living area with its traditional high ceilings and features retained and

REF: 24793 N/A sqm 2

2

EUR 4,000/month 27

TRAINING STRATEGIES Following my studies in the financial industry, for a good number of years I engaged in work that never gave me any true satisfaction. In search of some sort of fulfilment I took a leap of faith and started my journey in the letting business. It felt like walking into a company that was more of a second home than my place of work. Every day I fell a little more in love with what I did and my work became my passion.

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

- Steve Jobs

Having been given the role to train our new recruits was truly an exciting opportunity as it meant I could share my passion and drive with those still starting their venture into this industry. First and foremost I wholeheartedly believe that a company’s greatest assets are its employees and thus as per Henry Ford’s outlook “The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.” For this reason I didn’t want to design a training programme that took a rigid and formal approach. Our company is a fun and exciting place to be and thus the training programme should reflect accordingly.

Like everything else in life the training procedure doesn’t come without any challenges. A group of new recruits means a group of different individuals, different learners and different backgrounds. Some understand more on a theoretical level whilst others are more practical. This is why our training programme is a good balance of both.

It is also the trainer’s responsibility to keep learning new techniques and then translate that information to its recruits, because the greatest training in the world is ineffective if it is not delivered consistently with intense enthusiasm.

Furthermore, part of the learning process is learning from each other. Therefore instead of providing a teacher versus student environment our academy promotes discussion and sharing of best practice. This provides space for unidentified gaps and loopholes. Understanding that life isn’t always rainbows and butterflies we also evaluate how to accept rejection and how to deal with different clients.

In addition, part of our training strategy is to enhance the notion of self - worth because confidence comes from self-discipline and good quality training. As an academy we strive to go from good to great, to go from being average to being awesome. Having said this part of our learning theory is not to get comfortable with our own success but rather to hire awesome people and allow them the freedom to practice their awesomeness.

As a young girl I remember watching Mary Poppins and she was so very right in saying that “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and — SNAP! — the job’s a game!.”

Mattea Tabone Academy Skills Trainer | Sliema Quicklets Head Office mattea@quicklets.com.mt | +356 9983 6142 28

€ 1,250/month

REF: 28843 N/A

3

2

€ 900/month

ST JULIANS

ZEBBIEGH

A brand new modern furnished apartment situated in a very quiet and tranquil location, surrounded by greenery areas. Property is fully finished, comprising a very large spacious open plan dining/living/kitchen with a front balcony. It has a main double bedroom with

3

2

€ 850/month

SLIEMA

QRENDI

N/A

2

2

€ 1,000/month

SWIEQI

SLIEMA

N/A

N/A

3

2

€ 1,500/month

REF: 15759 N/A

2

2

€ 1,000/month

Highly finished penthouse located in a very good location, close to all amenities including bus stop, grocer, pharmacy and so on. It is situated on the 4th floor of a modern block situated in a quiet residential area.

New on the market is this two bedroom apartment in Sliema which is just a stone throw away from the sea front. Upon entrance one finds an open plan kitchen/ living/ dining and guest bathroom. One of the bedrooms includes two double beds and a front balcony whilst

REF: 15758

REF: 28492

New on the market is this two bedroom apartment in Sliema which is just a stone throw away from the sea front. Upon entrance one finds an open plan kitchen/ living/ dining and guest bathroom. One of the bedrooms includes two double beds and a front balcony whilst

Brand new three bedroom apartment situated in a quiet and tranquil area yet close to all amenities.

Property comprises a spacious open plan living area, fully equipped kitchen, main bathroom, main double bedroom with ensuite, spare bedroom with two single beds

REF: 27648

A three bedroom open plan apartment with seaviews and a spacious terrace.Remoditis explabore, corum ea quia sequis dolorenet peritat apid ut reicaep tatioriti dessitis a corehent laborer chiciis est, nam alibus volupta sanimusci sa cuptae accullo tem sim harume re

REF: 28846 N/A

3

3

€ 2,300/month

29

30

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THE EVOLUTION OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

One of our Commercial Real Estate Specialist has also a keen interest in all things Blockchain. He tells us how one will indirectly help the other.

We often hear that the Maltese Real Estate Industry is booming. Within this sector there is a smaller niche that is experiencing unprecedented growth which is less often talked about. The Commercial Real Estate market (CRE) is currently enjoying the fruits of an expanding economy.

A large number of foreign companies have set their eyes on Malta to establish their operations here for a number of good reasons. Malta’s international reputation has enjoyed a boost over the last decade with a steadily rising GDP rate (over 6.5% in 2017), an unemployment rate at an all-time low and a pro-business approach, offering advantageous tax and patents regime. iGaming, Finance, Pharma and Biotech industries are flourishing due to this operational climate which in turn is creating a welcoming uplift in demand for commercial property of all kind.

International chains operating in retail and hospitality are 32

setting up shop in Malta which would usually require larger stretches of land. In fact, development such as the upcoming Hard Rock Hotel in St Julian’s and The Quad Business Centre are being developed on a neverseen before level. Altogether, this is raising the bar in terms of design and architecture. This can be seen from the concepts adopted by the number of tower buildings sprouting cross the island. The new way of looking at architecture is being implemented not only in residential buildings but also office blocks, with an increased used of glass structures to make the best use of natural lighting. In the CRE industry, we can now clearly identify between office space and premium office space. Employers are no longer satisfied with providing a desk and a PC for their staff to work from but request a space that is engaging, creative and welcoming.

So the question is, what next?

Recent trends in Malta suggest that the advancements in Blockchain technology will soon hit vigorously the island. Powerful checks and balances inherent in blockchain could make the transactions, including real

estate ones, much faster and more transparent. Having all information such as documents and financials in one digital record, that can be duplicated time after time, with any changes to the documentation being visible, will increase transparency.

This encourages companies to have better credit which will in turn make increase their value. Costs would be lowered as not as many third parties would need to be involved and researches and due-diligence would be made easier, thus creating larger trust between the involved parties. In turn commercial, deals would even be able to be completed at a much faster pace, which is better for all involved.

Blockchain and smart contracts have the potential to make CRE transactions faster, more reliable and more secure. It seems almost certain for Malta to follow suit and head in the same direction with the rest of the world economic leaders. It’s only a matter of time!

Michael Paris Commercial Specialist | Spinola Branch michael.paris@quicklets.com.mt +356 7937 1629

270

€ 2,450

VALLETTA

REF: 20252

The palazzo is an imposing building. Its large, airy rooms surround a huge internal courtyard on the ground floor which allows access to terraces overlooking an orchard. Upstairs, the palazzo has a chapel and birth room and even a spiral staircase leading up to a turret

200

€ 1,500

An excellent opportunity to locate your business in a purposely designed modern office facility with outstanding features, location, and flexibility. Boasting the most breathtaking 360 views of any office space on the Island from the massive 116sqm terrace.

REF: 23437 240

€ 7,500

GZIRA

REF: 27918

A unique opportunity to acquire an already operating restaurant in the Capital City of Culture 2018. This property comes fully furnished, ready to open.

- Just under 80 covers - Lease valid until 31.12.2043 - Right of first refusal to extend

REF: 29304 N/A

€ 3,350

The latest commodities and modern technology have been introduced to combine the comfort of modern luxurious living within an authentic art deco setting.

This double fronted town house entrance leads through a hallway paved in authentic Maltese patterned

TA’ XBIEX

ST JULIANS

BIRKIRKARA

MSIDA

Office space for lease, situated on a main artery in Msida. This corner bright property features: Open space, Boardroom, W/C facilities and kitchenette Highly finished, Air-conditioning throughout, Lift access, Optional parking spaces

REF: 24444 85

€ 1,500

Located on the ground floor level and first floor level measuring in total 321 sq mt with its own independent entrance and private garage. This state of the art , seafront office space features: - Open space - Lounge area

REF: 29875 321

€ 11,500

33

QUICKPRICE

Disclaimer Data taken from actual transactions from January 2017 to December 2017.

Prices may vary due to the level of finishings, features, views, size of outdoor area and demand for the property type.

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Contact us at one of our branches: Quicklets Head Office 157A, Tower Road, Sliema Phone: +356 99256951

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Paceville 5, San Michel, St Georges Road, Paceville Phone: +356 99495905

Zanzi Homes Head Office Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s Phone: +356 20108777

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Fgura 243, Zabbar Road Phone: +356 79435206 | 99344666

Zanzi Luxury 63A, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s Phone: +356 79696979

Quicklets St Paul’s Bay 557/558 Triq San Pawl Phone: +356 99959854

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes San Gwann Cali House, The Penthouse, Triq Tal Balal Phone: +356 99450779

Quicklets Gzira Cottoner Buildings, Princess Margaret Street Phone: +356 79435206

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Msida 216, Marina Street Phone: +356 99009921

Quicklets Ta’ Xbiex 2A, Melita Court, Triq Giuseppe Cali, Phone: +356 79390039 | +356 79000925

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Mosta No.37 Quicklets floor 3, Constitution Street Phone: +356 99937577

Quicklets Qawra 496, Triq it - Turisti Phone : +356 99445102 | +356 99445102

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Meridian Level 0, Le Meridian Hotel, St Julians Phone: +356 79283873 | +356 99327702

Quicklets Swieqi 80, Triq Is-Swieqi Phone: +356 99351320

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes | Spinola Property Center, Quicklets 57, Triq Gorg Borg Oliver Phone: +356 79768696

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Ibrag 28A, Triq Ta’ L-Ibrag Swieqi Phone: +356 99973933 | +356 99704900

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes The Strand 85, The Strand, Sliema Phone: +356 99623041 Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Attard 35, Mdina Road Phone : +356 99262183 Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Gozo Victory Square, Rabat Phone : +356 79444400

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Iklin 52, Triq il Muzika Phone: +356 99776823 | +356 77700198 Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Zejtun Triq il-Barrani Phone: +356 99701106 | +356 79968921 Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Bormla No1, Triq Matty Grima Phone: +356 99017020 | +356 79006960

Quicklets & Zanzi Homes Naxxar The Office, Trejqet L-Iklin Phone: +356 99252466

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